Without much attention, in July of 2016, Congress passed a measure requiring the USDA to set standards for labeling bioengineered foods in an act called The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Law.
Though bioengineered isn’t a term we commonly used, it essentially refers to Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s), and foods altered through gene-editing or foods that might otherwise be “bioengineered”.
In December of 2018, the USDA finally defined the law and set forth established labeling standards. These standards will start being implemented in 2020, but what can you expect to see?
There are four primary methods for labeling food packages that contain bioengineered foods. These methods are:
1. Placing USDA approved Bioengineered symbol on their product
2. Simple text placed on the packaging which states “bioengineered food” or “contains bioengineered food ingredient”
3. With a phone number to text or call for more info
4. Or using a QR Code or similar scannable image that links to more information
Now, not all foods containing bioengineered foods will be labeled.
Food prepared by cafes, restaurants or similar ready to eat food preparation facilities will not have to disclose foods which contain bioengineered ingredients. There are also a few more exclusions such as pet food, beer, wine, and other minor exclusions.
Additionally, there is one HUGE exception for many gene-edited foods, and as such many gene-edited foods WILL NOT be labeled.
On its face, the labeling law seems like a great step forward, and in some ways it is. However, based on the definition of “bioengineered” set forth in section 66.1 of the law, many gene-edited foods will not require a label. Why?
According to the law, gene-edited foods which could have been achieved through “conventional breeding” will not require a label, even if they are gene-edited. Worse still, the USDA did not define conventional breeding, stating that the definition would have to change with time.
As you can imagine, this leaves the door wide open for companies who wish not to disclose whether foods are indeed gene-edited or not.
What Does This Mean For You?
Well, for many people concerned about the potential risks of GMOs, gene-edited or otherwise bioengineered foods, this labeling law is a good start but may not go far enough.
Though the measures will begin taking effect in 2020, the bill will not take full effect until January 1st of 2022.
Fortunately, you can always incorporate edible trees, and plants into your landscape design and avoid GMO’s and pesticides all together! My current favorite is Fig trees, which are so easy to grow, at least in the south.
Full text of the law here.
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This article was submitted by Douglas Dedrick. Writer for Healinglaw.com and has written more on the issue in this article USDA Requires GMO and Bioengineered Labeling by 2020